Founders
In 2009, Mike Rawbone and his wife Kay set out to establish the first Sailablity program in Hong Kong, along similar lines to those organised by the RYA in the UK.
Following a meeting with Chris Mitchell (an Australian boat designer from Access Dinghies - now Hansa), Kay & Mike sold their keel boat and purchased the first 2 Access 2.3 dinghies, these being subsequently delivered in early 2010. With tremendous help from a small group, including the then Commodore at HHYC (Mark Houghton) and the Sail Training Manager (Rob Allen), our program was born.
Mike had sailed since age 8 teaching Kay to sail once they were married. Professionally, Mike was a Human Resources Professional in HK and his wife Kay, worked at The Nesbitt Centre - a NGO specialising in the support of English speaking adults with Special Educational Needs and Autism.
Kay & Mike having made their home in Hong Kong, became members of HHYC. They have 3 children, Rachel, Joanne & David. They have 7 grandchildren - 4 girls and 3 boys.
Sadly Mike passed away suddenly in 2020. We are pleased to say that his wonderful legacy continues with the support of our Sailability Family.
Our first 2 Access 2.3's - HKG 1944 and HKG 1945
Kay & Mike Rawbone
Some of our first sailors - November 2009